The Italian giants have since distanced themselves from a move for the midfielder owing to the German outfit's demands, but AC Milan CEO Marco Fassone indicated that they could change their stance if the conditions change later in the transfer window.

"We've discussed the situation a couple of times, but at this moment they have a valuation of the player that we are not prepared to match. If the situation changes in August, then we are here," he added.

According to the London Evening Standard, Blues boss Antonio Conte approached Bayern coach Carlo Ancelotti about the Portugal midfielder's availability after Chelsea's 3-2 loss to the Bavarian giants during their pre-season friendly in Singapore on Tuesday (25 July).

The Italian manager has Tiemoue Bakayoko, N'Golo Kante and Nemanja Matic at his disposal for the deep lying midfielder's role, but Matic has been linked with a move to Old Trafford. The Stamford Bridge outfit will return to the Champions League next season following a one-season hiatus and Conte is looking to bolster his squad in all positions to be able to mount a challenge on all fronts.

Renato Sanches will be allowed to Bayern Munich this summer on a season-long loanGetty